Firefall Biography

A second generation US country rock band in the tradition of Poco and the Eagles. Formed during the genres heyday the initial line-up was comprised of ex-Flying Burrito Brothers members Rick Roberts (1950, Florida, USA; guitar/vocals) and Michael Clarke (b. Michael Dick, 3 June 1946, Spokane, Washington State, USA, d. 19 December 1993, Treasure Island, Florida, USA; drums, also ex-Byrds), Mark Andes (b. 19 February 1948, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; bass, ex-Spirit), Larry Burnett (guitar/vocals), Jock Bartley (b. Kansas, USA; guitar/vocals). Their debut was a refreshing though laid-back affair, and in addition to three US hit singles the album contained a version of the Stephen Stills / Chris Hillman song It Doesnt Matter, with alternative lyrics by Roberts. The bands first three albums were all strong sellers and for a brief time Firefall were one of the biggest-selling artists in their genre. Luna Sea, featuring new member David Muse (keyboards/saxophone/flute), contained a further major US hit with the memorable Just Remember I Love You. While their instrumental prowess was faultless their inability to progress significantly was their ultimate failing, although Elan demonstrated a will to change, with the sparkling hit Strange Way which featured a breathy jazz-influenced flute solo. They continued to produce sharply engineered albums with Muse playing an increasingly important role adding other instruments, giving a new flavour to a guitar-dominated genre. After the original band broke-up in 1981, Bartley assumed ownership of the name and has continued to tour and record with various personnel as Firefall.

Source: The Encyclopedia of Popular Music by Colin Larkin. Licensed from Muze.